Comforting One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo
A creamy, flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender chicken and zesty Cajun seasoning, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil For sautéing
- 1 cup diced onions Fresh is best
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup bell pepper (diced) Optional
- 1.5 cups orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Salt To taste
- Pepper To taste
- Fresh parsley For garnish, optional
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the diced chicken to the pot, season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and set it aside, retaining the flavorful bits in the pot.
- In the same pot, add 1 cup of diced onions and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. If using bell peppers, add them now.
- Stir in 1.5 cups of orzo pasta, 4 cups of chicken broth, and 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender.
- After the orzo is cooked, stir in the cooked chicken and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Ladle the warm orzo mixture into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for an optional touch of brightness.
Notes
For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream. This meal pairs well with a salad or garlic bread.